10 Attractions You'll Only Find in "Flyover" States

We're firm believers that every state is filled with beauty. But some believe in "flyover" states, or places that aren't worth vacationing. We're proving that wrong with 10 attractions that you'll only find in states that aren't traditional vacation destinations.

Check out a few of our favorite "flyover" states with great destinations below. You won't be disappointed when you visit them during your next outdoor vacation.

5 "Flyover" States with Exciting Attractions

Iowa

Many Iowans joke that their state has more hogs than humans. That may be true, but there's no shortage of exciting attractions for humans in the Hawkeye State. We've highlighted two of our favorite destinations below, but you may also be interested in other hot spots, including:

• National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium – Dubuque, Iowa
• Pappajohn Sculpture Park – Des Moines, Iowa
• Effigy Mounds National Monument – Harpers Ferry, Iowa

Maquoketa Caves State Park

Nestled 50 miles north of the Quad Cities, Maquoketa Caves State Park has more caves than any other state park. A six-mile trail system links scenic bluffs to the caves. Several caves can be explored by foot, while others are reserved for spelunking, or cave diving.

Riverboat Twilight

The Riverboat Twilight is a restored steamboat in LeClaire, Iowa. This historic ship cruises the mighty Mississippi River, offering a throwback to the days of Mark Twain. Trips range in duration from a short sightseeing tour to a two-day cruise to Dubuque, Iowa, and back.

Kentucky

Known for bluegrass and the annual Derby, Kentucky is anything but a "flyover" state. The terrain ranges from the Ohio River in the north, to the Appalachian Mountains in the east. Along with the highlighted attractions, consider visiting these other destinations:

• Kentucky Derby Museum – Louisville, Kentucky
• Natural Bridge State Resort Park – Slade, Kentucky
• Mary Todd Lincoln House – Lexington, Kentucky

John James Audubon State Park

This preserve honors America's most famous birder who, quite literally, wrote the book on North American birds.

The Audubon Museum is housed within the park and contains more than 1,000 items, including the founder's writings and paintings. Outside, the nature center offers hiking trails through forests and wetlands.

Mammoth Cave National Park

A two-hour drive south of Lake Rudolph will bring you to Mammoth Cave National Park. This is the world's longest cave system and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided cave tours are available, with reservations strongly encouraged.

Illinois

Many visitors to Illinois only explore Chicago. But the state has more to offer outside the Windy City. We spotlight two of our favorite stops below, but you can also explore more destinations in Illinois:

• Buffalo Rock State Park – Ottawa, Illinois
• Anderson Japanese Gardens – Rockfield, Illinois
• Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum – Springfield, Illinois

Starved Rock State Park

A scenic area of canyons, Starved Rock State Park is located 35 miles southwest of Sun Retreats Millbrook. Visitors can hike trails through canyons, along bluffs, and behind waterfalls. Additionally, the park is a popular spot for fishing and boating along the Illinois River.

John Deere Pavilion

American manufacturing is synonymous with John Deere. Families can explore the company's creations at the John Deere Pavilion in Moline, Illinois. This museum features a huge (literally) history of heavy machinery with hands-on exhibits for kids.

Virginia

With its location on the East Coast, Virginia is a surprising "flyover" state. Yet, the Commonwealth State has fewer visitors than many of its neighbors. That means you'll find smaller crowds when exploring the state's great attractions.

In addition to the two destinations highlighted below, we recommend making time for these wonderful spots:

• George Washington's Mount Vernon – Mount Vernon, Virginia
• Virginia State Capitol – Richmond, Virginia
• False Cape State Park – Virginia Beach, Virginia

Shenandoah National Park

Home to Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park protects Virginia's portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park is home to seemingly endless scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and waterfalls. This park is very busy during weekends, so if you can, we recommend visiting on a weekday.

Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg is an American treasure. Set on 301 acres, this living history museum is a recreated 18^th century village. You can walk through on your own or take one of the guided tours that are offered.

Indiana

Known for basketball and NASCAR racing, Indiana is often written off as a "flyover" state. But that's a mistake! The Hoosier State has plenty to offer. Check out our attraction spotlights below, as well as these great destinations:

• The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
• Indiana Dunes National Park
• Falls of the Ohio State Park

Spring Mill State Park

Spring Mill State Park is located 70 miles northeast of Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph. This destination features a revived pioneer village with a historic mill. Famously, the park's streams don't freeze, as the waters flow from warm cave springs.

Marengo Cave

Driving 45 miles east of Lake Rudolph will bring you to Marengo Cave. A 5-mile retreat, Marengo Cave is best known for its underground canoe tours on subterranean streams. Other activities include walking tours, gemstone mining, and pedal karts.

Next time you're traveling, don't hesitate to visit a traditional "flyover" state. With unique attractions and fewer crowds, these states can be the best destinations. Share this post and ask your friends which out-of-the-ordinary destination they'd like to visit!

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